New Delhi: In a major policy push aimed at strengthening India’s makhana (fox nut) sector, the Union Government has announced the establishment of a dedicated “Makhana Board.” The significant announcement was made by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the presentation of the Union Budget for the financial year 2025–26.
The move is expected to provide substantial support to Bihar, which accounts for nearly 90 per cent of global makhana production, positioning India as the world’s leading producer of the crop.
What is Makhana?
Commonly known as “fox nuts” or “gorgon nuts,” makhana is derived from the seeds of the aquatic plant Euryale ferox. Widely consumed as a nutritious snack, it is particularly valued in vegetarian diets for its high protein content and health benefits.
Rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus, makhana is associated with multiple health advantages. It is believed to aid in weight management, support cardiovascular health, and help regulate blood sugar levels, making it increasingly popular in both domestic and international markets.
Production Landscape
While Bihar remains the dominant producer, makhana cultivation is also undertaken in states such as Manipur, West Bengal, Tripura, and Odisha. In Bihar alone, an estimated five lakh families are directly dependent on the sector for their livelihoods.
Districts including Madhubani, Darbhanga, and Katihar are among the primary production hubs, collectively contributing a substantial share of the country’s total output.
Objectives of the Makhana Board
The proposed Makhana Board aims to bring production, processing, and marketing activities under an integrated institutional framework. Its key focus areas include:
1. Enhancing Productivity
The Board will facilitate access to high-quality seeds and promote modern, scientific cultivation practices. By encouraging improved farming techniques, it seeks to raise yield levels and ensure better crop quality.
2. Promoting Value Addition
Moving beyond the sale of raw makhana, the Board plans to strengthen processing infrastructure to support the production of value-added products. This initiative is expected to enhance farmers’ incomes and expand market opportunities.
3. Expanding Global Footprint
A major objective is to build the “Indian Makhana” brand in international markets. With improved logistics, streamlined supply chains, and stronger trade partnerships, the government aims to significantly boost exports.
4. Farmer Support and Institutional Access
The Board will also focus on capacity-building initiatives, including technical training for farmers. It is expected to ensure smoother access to government schemes, subsidies, and financial assistance.
A Strategic Boost for Bihar
For Bihar, where a vast agrarian population depends on makhana cultivation, the establishment of the Board marks a critical development. Although the state had earlier sought a dedicated research centre, the expansion of the proposal into a full-fledged Board signals a broader institutional commitment to the sector.
Economic observers view the initiative as a milestone in transforming makhana into a globally recognised Indian agri-brand. With structured policy support and market-oriented reforms, the Makhana Board could play a pivotal role in elevating the sector from a traditional livelihood activity to a high-value agricultural enterprise with global reach.
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